The Greatest Scenes: The Campfire Scene from "My Own Private Idaho"

Had he been given the chance, River Phoenix would probably be the biggest actor in the world.

As tragic as it is, his death in 1993 cemented his place in cinematic memory, as the young actor with more promise than can be conceived of. His potential, both realized and unrealized, was so great that it eventually crushed him, driving him to drugs and that fateful Halloween morning. While he was alive, he delivered some of the greatest performances ever by a young actor.

His most famous may be the masterclass campfire scene from the movie My Own Private Idaho, directed by Gus Van Sant. The movie surrounds two young boys (the other played by Keanu Reeves) on a journey. During one scene, Mike (Phoenix) and Scott (Reeves) are sitting by a campfire, and seemingly out of the blue, Mike asks Scott about their relationship. Scott describes it as a friendship, which Mike hesitantly agrees with. Mike then admits that he has romantic feelings for Scott. The two lines that reveal the affection? When talking about hustling men for cash, Mike says: "I could love someone even if I wasn't paid for it. I love you and you don't pay me."

What really strikes a chord is Phoenix's delivery of not just those lines, but throughout the entire scene. In every single frame, you could see his fear and apprehension, even before you know he's talking about. You could also hear it; the tension in his voice as he explained himself to Scott was palpable. Even in a whisper, River spoke volumes. His performance was extraordinary, especially considering his age. He engrossed himself in the role, developing a three-dimensional character you couldn't help but feel for as his feelings aren't returned.

River Phoenix's dedication to the role of Mike Waters is what many believe began his downward spiral. Around the time of filming, rumors circulated that he was using drugs, just like his character. Whatever the cause, River Phoenix's death is one of the great tragedies in Hollywood history. With a talent undeniable and an ability to pull vulnerability out of the toughest roles, he could've reached the highest heights.